It's hard to believe that I'm writing this message for the last PRSA-LA newsletter of the year. My how time flies...

Looking back on my message for the January edition of "LA Connect," I focused on two main priorities for 2008: developing leadership from the ground-up and increasing the level of diversity. 

As we approach year's end, I'm happy to report that we have made great progress in both areas. 

Our six PRSSA student chapters have grown substantially, while many of our young professionals/associate members have advanced to become full-fledged PRSA members. We have created 10 new committees staffed with amazing volunteers from whom we will draw future leaders for the chapter and the national organization. 

In terms of diversity, we have made progress at the top leadership level, increasing representation on the board of directors from 18% to 32%. During 2008, I have had the pleasure of meeting more PR professionals of ethnic, racial and lifestyle diversity at chapter events than I can recall in any previous year. Looking forward, my hope and pledge for 2009 is that PRSA-LA will continue making progress achieving these and other objectives.

In the meantime, on behalf of the board of directors of PRSA-LA, I wish you and your loved ones a very happy holiday season. 

  

 

 

Celebrate the holidays in style with your colleagues at PRSA-LA and the Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA) as we pull out all the stops for this year's "PR Wonderland" Holiday Mixer.

We'll indulge in all sorts of holiday cheer at Zune L.A., which is quickly becoming one of L.A.'s hottest party venues. Network with friends as you enjoy the hosted open bar, scruptious food, tarot card readings and strolling magicians.

    COST: 
    $40 for PRSA-LA and HPRA Members 

    $30 for PRSA-LA YPs and Students

    $50 for Non-Members and Guests



   

Lewis Lands Milbank Real Estate

Lewis & Associates has been named corporate public relations counsel for Milbank Real Estate - a nationwide real estate company with an $800 million portfolio of commercial and residential holdings. Its latest project is The Roosevelt, a 222-unit luxury loft development in downtown L.A. Lewis & Associates is led by real estate PR veteran Richard Lewis, who has more than three decades of experience spearheading such campaigns. 

 

Wonacott Wins New Kid-Focused Digital Media Clients

Wonacott Communications has been tapped to handle PR for kid-focused interactive media firms PSYCLOPS and Cookie Jar Entertainment. The agency is developing a holiday season campaign to launch the new line of PSYCLOPS iPod accessories, as well as a complementary Web site focused on music and dance for kids 8-14 years-old. For Cookie Jar, Wonacott is working with the company's in-house PR team to expand digital media  growth and product initiatives. Cookie Jar was recently acquired by DIC Entertainment - one of the world's largest privately-held companies focused on children's entertainment.

 

 

Series Explores Diversity in the PR Industry 

PRSA-LA members and non-members alike can access PRSA's "Diversity Today" podcast series. Each episode covers a diversity-related issue affecting the public relations industry. You can stream or download the podcast on the PRSA-LA Web site.

PRSA-LA is planning a substantial multicultural/diversity seminar in 2009. Anyone interested in getting involved is encouraged to contact Multicultural/Diversity Co-Chair Marcie Perez at marcie@ideahall.com.
 

  

 

 

 

PRSA-LA welcomes the following new members*:

 
The San Gabriel Pomona Valley and Greater Los Angeles chapters of the American Red Cross are looking for volunteer public information officers to help deal with media during an emergency. Volunteers will play a critical part in the organization's disaster response by communicating how the Red Cross is assisting victims and what resources are available to the community. Training will be provided by professionals, and will include mock on-camera and radio interviews. For more information, please contact Rupa Mohan at mohan@sgpvarc.org.